Inaugural UC Marathon attracts 785 runners

Inaugural UC Marathon attracts 785 runners from 40 states and three countries; Falcon and Choleva lead the field with marathon wins.

Charleston, WV - "There she is, let's cheer for Mommy," a father told his toddler as they waited near the finish line, scanning the crowd of runners making their way through downtown Charleston. Moments later, they erupted with excitement as she crossed the line, completing a goal months in the making.

Scenes like this played out across Charleston as 785 runners took part in the inaugural UC Marathon presented by United Bank, the first marathon held in the capital city in nearly three decades.

The race weekend featured three events hosted by the University of Charleston: a 5K on Saturday, followed by a half-marathon and marathon on Sunday morning. Participants traveled from 40 states and three countries - Canada, France, and Nigeria, highlighting Charleston's continued growth as a destination for running events and sports tourism.

Leading the way were standout performances from Hector Falcon of Barboursville, West Virginia, who won the men's marathon in 2:27:27, and Abbie Choleva of Marietta, Ohio, who captured the women's title in 3:06:24.

Top Marathon Finishers:

Men:

Hector Falcon, Barboursville, WV - 2:27:27

Caleb Bowen, Huntington, WV - 2:30:15

Hannig, Fairmont, WV - 2:35:47

Women:

Abbie Choleva, Marietta, OH - 3:06:24

Lily Moerschel, Milton, MA - 3:12:54

Jalynn Browning, Danville, WV - 3:15:31

Before sunrise on a crisp Sunday morning, runners gathered along Capitol Street to take on the fast, flat 26.2-mile course through Downtown Charleston, Elk City, Kanawha City, and UC's scenic riverfront campus.

Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin welcomed runners at the starting line, calling the marathon an exciting opportunity for the capital city.

"You remind us that we can do hard things," she said. "Every single day, you put your best foot forward, and you make Charleston, West Virginia, look good."

Of the runners participating over the weekend, 157 competed in the 5K, 366 in the half-marathon, and 262 in the marathon. More than 100 marathon participants traveled from outside West Virginia, including Pascal Radley of Arizona, who completed his 522nd career marathon.

"As Charleston's University, we are proud to help bring this event to life," said UC President Marty Roth. "Our Honors College students played a major role in planning and executing the marathon experience. Proceeds support the Honors College and help expand opportunities for high-achieving students."

Participants ranged widely in age and experience, with half-marathon runners from 13 to 79 years old and marathon runners from 14 to 72.

The UC Marathon is certified by USA Track & Field (USATF), allowing runners to use their results to qualify for world-renowned races such as Boston, Chicago, New York, and London, positioning Charleston as an emerging destination on the national running calendar.

UC Honors College students and student-athletes played key roles throughout the weekend, assisting with course operations, water stations, race materials, and cheering runners on along the route. The effort was led by Honors College co-directors Kara Fisher and Hallie Chillag, along with UC Vice President of Advancement Gail Carter.

Custom medals and awards were created by Meg Ferg Pottery, adding a distinctive local element to the race experience.

Following Sunday's race, Slack Plaza hosted a celebration featuring music, food, and the opportunity for runners to ring the marathon bell to mark personal achievements.

The University of Charleston extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors and partners who helped make the UC Marathon possible, including presenting sponsor United Bank; Spilman Thomas & Battle; Vandalia Health; the City of Charleston; the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau; WOWK-TV; and many others.